The Book of Acts is the fifth book of the New Testament and is commonly believed to have been written by Luke, the physician and companion of the Apostle Paul. This attribution is based on the similarities in language and style between Acts and the Gospel of Luke, as well as the "we" passages in Acts that suggest the author was a close companion of Paul. Most scholars date the writing of Acts between AD 60 and AD 80. Acts serves as a bridge between the Gospels (which focus on the life and teachings of Jesus) and the Epistles (letters written to the early Christian churches). It provides an essential historical record of the early church’s formation and expansion.
Chapters 1-5: These chapters recount the Ascension of Jesus, the choosing of Matthias to replace Judas as an apostle, the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, and the early teachings of the apostles. They also detail the community life of the first believers and introduce the reader to early challenges faced by the Christian community, like the deceit of Ananias and Sapphira.
Chapters 6-8: These chapters introduce Stephen, the first Christian martyr. His impassioned defense of the faith and subsequent stoning intensify the persecution of Christians in Jerusalem, leading to a diaspora of believers. One of those involved in persecuting Christians is Saul (later known as Paul). The chapter concludes with Philip's evangelism, notably the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch.
Chapters 9-12: Saul's dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus is a focal point, and he becomes Paul, an ardent advocate for Christ. Peter's ministry also expands, as evidenced by his vision that challenges Jewish dietary laws and his subsequent interactions with Cornelius, a Gentile.
Chapters 13-20: These chapters cover Paul's missionary journeys across Asia Minor, Greece, and other regions, often accompanied by individuals like Barnabas, Silas, and Timothy. Despite facing challenges like imprisonment and confrontations with pagan worshipers, Paul establishes numerous Christian communities.
Chapters 21-28: Paul is arrested in Jerusalem and, after various trials and imprisonments, appeals to Caesar and is sent to Rome. The narrative ends with Paul in Rome, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Work of the Holy Spirit: Acts underscores the Holy Spirit's role in guiding, empowering, and indwelling the early believers, from Pentecost onwards.
Growth and Expansion of the Church: Acts chronicles the transformation of a small group of Jewish believers in Jerusalem into a multi-ethnic and expansive Christian movement.
Gentiles in the Early Church: The inclusion of Gentiles without them having to become Jewish first is a central issue, highlighted by events like the Council of Jerusalem.
Suffering and Perseverance: The persecution of the early church and the resilience of its members underscore the cost and commitment of discipleship.
God’s Sovereignty: Throughout Acts, divine interventions — visions, miracles, and angelic visits — illustrate God's guiding hand in establishing the church.
I. Introduction and The Early Jerusalem Church (Chapters 1-5)
A. Chapter 1: The Ascension of Jesus and the selection of Matthias to replace Judas.
B. Chapter 2: The Holy Spirit descends at Pentecost; Peter's sermon leads to mass conversions.
C. Chapter 3-4: Peter heals a lame man and is arrested along with John; they testify before the Sanhedrin.
D. Chapter 5: Ananias and Sapphira's deceit and death; apostles perform miracles and face persecution.
II. Spread of the Gospel in Judea and Samaria (Chapters 6-8)
A.
Chapter 6: The selection of seven deacons, including Stephen.
B. Chapter 7: Stephen's defense and martyrdom.
C. Chapter 8: The church is dispersed due to persecution; Philip evangelizes in Samaria and baptizes the Ethiopian eunuch.
III. Saul's Conversion and Peter's Ministry (Chapters 9-12)
A. Chapter 9: Saul's dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus.
B. Chapter 10-11: Peter's vision and the conversion of Cornelius, a Gentile.
C. Chapter 12: James is executed, Peter is imprisoned and then miraculously released.
IV. Paul’s Missionary Journeys (Chapters 13-20)
A. Chapter 13-14: Paul and Barnabas's first missionary journey.
B. Chapter 15: The Council of Jerusalem addresses the issue of Gentiles in the church.
C. Chapter 16-18: Paul's second missionary journey, including the Macedonian call and visits to cities like Philippi, Thessalonica, and Corinth.
D. Chapter 19-20: Paul's third missionary journey, emphasizing his time in Ephesus and the riot there.
V. Paul’s Arrest, Trials, and Journey to Rome (Chapters 21-28)
A. Chapter 21-23: Paul's arrest in Jerusalem and his defense before the Sanhedrin.
B. Chapter 24-26: Paul's trials before Felix, Festus, and King Agrippa.
C. Chapter 27: Paul's perilous journey by sea to Rome, including a shipwreck.
D. Chapter 28: Paul's arrival in Rome, his meeting with the Jewish leaders, and his time under house arrest.